jahn702's Profile

What are some of the tastiest cheeses to purchase from Trader Joe's? I'm building a cheese plate and need some suggestions. Already on my list: Smoked Gouda, English Cheddar with Caramelized Onions & Toscano Cheese with Black Pepper. Any others?

le creuset french/dutch ovens. hands down. it's a bit expensive but it will be the last pot you buy and last you a lifetime. It's also extremely versatile. I've roasted chicken, cooked chili and even baked corn bread in it.

There aren't that many great options walking distance from the Magic Castle. The one off the top of my head is Yamashiro which is right next door but a little ways up a hill. If you get seated near the window you'll have great view of Hollywood. It's Japanese cuisine so I'm not sure if Brunch is best here. For places close enough via public transit, I'd recommend Eveleigh in West Hollywood on Sunset. They have a beautiful patio and the brunch is really delicious. The London West Hollywood also has a great rooftop restaurant. You definitely need to make reservations for this one since you aren't a guest staying at the London.

If you have a car, Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica has a great patio dining area with a perfect view of the ocean. Their brunch is always good but I would call ahead for reservations. They usually have set menus for holiday brunches and seats tend to fill up pretty quick.

The Huntley in Santa Monica also has a rooftop restaurant that's gorgeous. It's a little sceney so if you're looking for something more casual, I'd go to Shutters.

I'm Korean and my parents really love Crustacean when they are celebrating something special. It's an upscale Euro- Vietnamese fusion restaurant in Beverly Hills and the decor is really beautiful and unique. The entrance is built on a glass aquarium so you're literally walking on top of a river full with Koi fish.

In the Valley, I really like Kiwami which is also part of the Katsu-ya Family. They offer traditional sushi with really great twists. An example, they have a yellow tail sampler with 4 different types of yellow tail all prepared with truffle in unique ways. The atmosphere is not much more than your regular sushi place, but the food is top notch.

You could easily dine at both locations with a $300 budget. Hope this helps!